Yankees will start Stephen Drew at second base on Friday night versus hos old club, Boston.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

He's hit .176 with four home runs and a .583 OPS in 131 at-bats, so fantasy owners may still want to stay away.

The Yankees have picked up Stephen Drew from the Boston Red Sox for Kelly Johnson. | 07/31/2014 5:30 PM

News

The Yankees have picked up Stephen Drew from the Boston Red Sox for Kelly Johnson.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

It was the first trade between the Yankees and Red Sox since 1997. Drew has never played any position other than shortstop, but he's going to start at second base for New York. Learning a new position on the fly won't help him turn around his struggles at the plate. He's hit .176 with four home runs and a .583 OPS in 131 at-bats.

Drew has done little to excite fantasy owners batting .170 in 34 games and has had no success versus Friday's starter. Stay away.

Red Sox shortstop Stephen Drew went deep for the second straight game Tuesday at Toronto. | 07/22/2014 10:21 PM

News

Red Sox shortstop Stephen Drew went deep for the second straight game Tuesday at Toronto.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Drew has gone 8-for-21 (.381) over his last six games after starting out the season 11-for-86 (.128).

Red Sox shortstop Stephen Drew went 2-for-4 with a homer and four RBI Monday against the Blue Jays. | 07/21/2014 10:22 PM

News

Red Sox shortstop Stephen Drew went 2-for-4 with a homer and four RBI Monday against the Blue Jays.

sportsnetwork.com

Impact

Drew has picked up seven hits in his last 17 at-bats to lift his batting average to .175 on the season.

Stephen Drew not in Red Sox lineup Saturday | 07/12/2014 12:26 PM

News

Stephen Drew is not in the Red Sox starting lineup for Saturday's contest against the Astros.

Gordon Edes on Twitter

Impact

Brock Holt will draw the start in his place at shorstop while Xander Bogaerta covers third base. Drew continues to struggle offensively, slashing just .135/.198/.258 with two homers and five RBI through his first 27 games.

Drew homers again but Red Sox fall to O's | 07/05/2014 10:58 PM

News

Stephen Drew homered again in the second half of Saturday's doubleheader against the Orioles.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

The shortstop hit his first home run of 2014 in the first game -- a Red Sox win. Boston couldn't take the nightcap. Drew has struggled since re-signing with Boston in late May, but he was deprived of a spring training and can maybe get it going in the second half.

Stephen Drew belts first homer as BoSox win | 07/05/2014 3:59 PM

News

Stephen Drew belted his first home run of the 2014 season as the Red Sox took the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Orioles.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

The second inning blast off Miguel Gonzalez got the Red Sox on the board first, and was his only hit in three at-bats on the afternoon. He's been absolutely atrocious at the plate thus far, slashing an incomprehensible .145/.181/.232 with just three RBI.

Stephen Drew goes 0-for-4 in loss | 06/21/2014 1:44 AM

News

Stephen Drew went 0-for-4 on Friday and is 0-for-10 in his last three games.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Drew is hitting .176 with no power in 34 at-bats since joining the Red Sox, but worse for the team is that Xander Bogaerts has stopped hitting ever since moving to third base to make room. One imagines that if the Red Sox could find a taker for Drew's contract, they'd make the move in a heartbeat.

Stephen Drew returns to Red Sox' lineup | 06/15/2014 9:47 AM

News

Stephen Drew is back in the Red Sox' lineup Sunday.

Scott Lauber on Twitter

Impact

Drew missed the last six games with a strained oblique, but he went through an intense workout prior to Saturday's contest and came out of it fine. The shortstop has just one hit in his first 14 at-bats for the Red Sox this season. Xander Bogaerts is on the bench Sunday, with Brock Holt handling third base.

Stephen Drew remains out of Red Sox lineup | 06/14/2014 12:53 PM

News

Stephen Drew (oblique) remains out of the Red Sox starting lineup on Saturday.

Alex Speier on Twitter

Impact

While he continues to improve, it will be the sixth straight game that Drew has missed. Once again, Jonathan Herrera will draw the start at shortstop and hit eighth against the Indians.

Drew (oblique) could go for MRI on Friday | 06/12/2014 4:15 PM

News

Stephen Drew aggravated his right oblique injury and could go for an MRI on Friday.

Jason Mastrodonato on Twitter

Impact

Drew is out of the lineup for the fourth straight game Thursday. We should know more after he goes for an MRI, but a trip to the disabled list wouldn't be a surprise at this point.

Stephen Drew (oblique) sits again Thursday | 06/12/2014 3:20 PM

News

Stephen Drew (oblique) is out of the Red Sox starting lineup again on Thursday against the Indians.

Tim Britton on Twitter

Impact

Drew still has some tightness in his right oblique, so Jonathan Herrera will play shortstop in Thursday's series opener with Cleveland. Drew is 1-for-14 (.071) with five strikeouts since joining the Red Sox.

Drew (oblique) out of lineup again Tuesday | 06/10/2014 2:01 PM

News

Stephen Drew (oblique) is out of the starting lineup again Tuesday against the Orioles.

Roch Kubatko on Twitter

Impact

Drew sat out Monday's game with tightness in his right oblique and might still be a couple of days away from returning. Jonathan Herrera will start at shortstop again.

Stephen Drew sidelined with oblique tightness | 06/09/2014 4:59 PM

News

Stephen Drew is out of Monday's lineup against the Orioles due to tightness in his right oblique.

Sean McAdam on twitter

Impact

It was a bit curious to see Drew sitting against right-hander Bud Norris on Monday, so this would explain it. Red Sox manager John Farrell said that he felt something in his oblique during his last at-bat on Sunday. He's considered day-to-day right now, but these type of injuries can be tricky. Look for the Red Sox to be cautious.

Stephen Drew not in Red Sox lineup Monday | 06/09/2014 3:16 PM

News

Stephen Drew is not in the Red Sox starting lineup on Monday evening against the Orioles.

Sean McAdam on Twitter

Impact

It's his third day off in seven games since rejoining the club. Drew is just 1-for-14 so far for the Red Sox and is obviously being eased back into regular duty. Jonathan Herrera is playing shortstop on Monday night.

Stephen Drew not in lineup Tuesday | 06/03/2014 2:51 PM

News

Stephen Drew is not in Tuesday's lineup against the Indians.

Tim Britton on Twitter

Impact

Drew went 0-for-2 with a walk in his season debut Monday and will take a seat Tuesday with left-hander T.J. House on the hill for Cleveland. Jonathan Herrera will make the start at shortstop.

Stephen Drew goes hitless in season debut | 06/02/2014 9:43 PM

News

Stephen Drew went 0-for-2 with a walk in his 2014 debut Monday against the Indians.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Drew wasn't alone: Boston's No. 5-9 hitters combined to go 0-for-16 with seven strikeouts in this one. Drew hit eighth tonight and figures to continue to bat in the bottom third of the order most of the time.

Drew batting eighth Monday in 2014 debut | 06/02/2014 3:30 PM

News

Stephen Drew is batting eighth and playing shortstop Monday in his 2014 regular-season debut.

Tim Britton on Twitter

Impact

Drew batted eighth primarily last season for the Red Sox but could work his way up the order this year as he settles in. The 31-year-old signed a one-year contract worth about $10 million on May 20 with Boston and will be the starting shortstop going forward, pushing Xander Bogaerts over to third base. Drew was 5-for-21 (.238) with zero homers and two RBI on his seven-game minor league tuneup.

Red Sox recall Stephen Drew from Triple-A | 06/01/2014 5:56 PM

News

Red Sox recalled SS Stephen Drew from Triple-A Pawtucket.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

The veteran shortstop is expected to immediately take back over as the club's starting shortstop with Xander Bogaerts sliding over to third base. He's worth scooping up in any mixed leagues where he may be available.

Drew doubles in latest minors game | 05/27/2014 9:15 AM

News

Stephen Drew went 1-for-3 with a two-run double, a walk, and two strikeouts Monday in a game with Low-A Greenville.

Peter Abraham on Twitter

Impact

Drew is now hitting .375 (3-for-8) with two doubles and two RBI over three tune-up games in the minors. He's slated to move up to Triple-A Pawtucket on Wednesday and should join the Red Sox sometime next week if all goes well.

Stephen Drew optioned to Low-A | 05/23/2014 1:40 PM

News

Red Sox optioned SS Stephen Drew to Low-A Greenville.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Drew needed to clear waivers in order to be optioned, which he has done. The shortstop is expected to get in around 25 at-bats in the minors in order to knock the rust off before the Red Sox bring him back up. Alex Wilson has replaced Drew on the roster.

Red Sox make Stephen Drew signing official | 05/21/2014 2:35 PM

News

Red Sox signed SS Stephen Drew to a one-year contract.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Drew will receive a prorated portion of the $14.1 million qualifying offer he turned down over the winter, which comes out to around $10 million. While he is on the active roster, Drew is expected to play 7-10 games in the minors in order to knock the rust off. He'll take over as the starting shortstop once ready, pushing Xander Bogaerts to third base.

Drew to spend 7-10 days in the minor leagues | 05/20/2014 4:00 PM

News

Stephen Drew will spend 7-10 days in the minor leagues before officially joining the Red Sox.

Nick Cafardo on Twitter

Impact

Drew was signed Tuesday to a one-year contract worth about $10 million, but the Red Sox want him to get some playing time down on the farm before throwing him into major league games. It'll be like a mini spring training for Drew, who is expected to take over as Boston's primary shortstop once he's deemed fit for big league action. Xander Bogaerts will slide to third base. Drew is worth stashing in most fantasy leagues.

Stephen Drew will be active on Wednesday | 05/20/2014 3:22 PM

News

Stephen Drew is expected to be active for the Red Sox on Wednesday.

Nick Cafardo on Twitter

Impact

The Red Sox aren't wasting any time. Drew is reportedly in Boston on Tuesday, presumably to take a pre-signing physical in order to finalize his new one-year contract. The Red Sox have yet to announce their plans, but we're expecting him to be the regular shortstop again while Xander Bogaerts shifts over to third base.

Report: Red Sox to sign Stephen Drew | 05/20/2014 2:49 PM

News

FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal reports that the Red Sox have signed Stephen Drew.

Ken Rosenthal on Twitter

Report: Four teams interested in Stephen Drew | 05/20/2014 9:49 AM

News

Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe reports that four teams have shown preliminary interest in Stephen Drew.

Nick Cafardo on Twitter

Impact

It appears that the bidding will begin in earnest after the First-Year Player Draft on June 5, as teams will no longer have to give up a draft pick in order to sign him. No word on who could be involved, but teams like the Tigers and Yankees make sense as potential fits.

Red Sox have not talked contract with Drew | 04/28/2014 2:31 PM

News

According to Rob Bradford of WEEI, the Red Sox have not engaged free agent infielder Stephen Drew in contract negotiations at any point during the 2014 season.

WEEI

Impact

The Red Sox are fully committed to Xander Bogaerts as their starting shortstop. Drew is likely to wait until after the June MLB Amateur Draft to sign with a team because a deal would no longer require forfeiting a pick.

Yanks 'tapped out' on money, not in on Drew | 03/24/2014 11:12 AM

News

According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, the Yankees have spoken to Stephen Drew's agent Scott Boras within the past couple of days but are "tapped out" on money.

CBS Sports

Impact

The Yankees could use an upgrade of their defensive range and need insurance for veteran shortstop Derek Jeter, but Drew is not under consideration at this time. The Tigers also don't seem to be a fit for Drew, despite Jose Iglesias potentially being out for the year. Drew could remain unsigned into the regular season. His market has been killed by the draft pick compensation system.

If that were true, it wouldn't be on the table long. Drew has garnered some attention lately in the wake of the news that Tigers shortstop Jose Iglesias would miss most of 2014, so Boras may just be trying to get his client some leverage in negotiations. Drew and the Tigers seem to be a match, so something may happen soon.

Drew willing to take 1-year deal from Tigers | 03/21/2014 4:10 PM

News

John Lowe of the Detroit Free Press reports that Stephen Drew is willing to sign a one-year contract with the Tigers.

Detroit Free Press

Impact

The Tigers traded for Andrew Romine Friday and are said to be willing to pair him with either Danny Worth or Hernan Perez as they look to replace Jose Iglesias (shins). However, it's hard not to see Drew piquing their interest on a one-year deal, as he can bridge the gap for a season before Iglesias returns next year. Drew, who would cost the Tigers their first-round pick, would likely want at least $14.1 million after declining the Red Sox' qualifying offer.

Dombrowski says Tigers not interested in Drew | 03/16/2014 10:01 PM

News

Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski indicated Sunday that the Tigers will stick with "internal candidates" to replace Jose Iglesias.

Detroit News

Impact

While the Tigers are reportedly interested in Drew, it would be very unwise for Dombrowski to surrender the team's first round pick to do so, when the farm system is already depleted. Trading for a replacement, such as Nick Franklin, Jimmy Rollins or Darwin Barney could all be plausible alternatives for the Tigers.

Stephen Drew could be an option for Tigers | 03/15/2014 12:40 PM

News

According to Peter Gammons, Stephen Drew could be an option for the Tigers.

Peter Gammons on Twitter

Impact

With Jose Iglesias potentially starting the year on the disabled list, the Tigers could be forced to begin the season with Hernan Perez at shortstop. They have had a good working relationship with Scott Boras in the past, and could be a nice landing spot for Drew to potentially rebuild his value on a one-year deal.

Red Sox not actively engaged with SS Drew | 02/26/2014 4:45 PM

News

According to WEEI's Alex Speier, the Red Sox are not engaged in active discussions with Stephen Drew.

WEEI

Impact

Both the Cactus League and Grapefruit League got underway on Wednesday, and yet Drew remains unsigned. He's struggling to attract offers because his free agency is tied to draft pick compensation and there's been talk of him waiting until the early part of the summer to settle on a landing spot. Nelson Cruz, who was also tied to draft pick compensation, recently agreed to a one-year, $8 million deal with the Orioles.

Alderson says Drew could wait to sign | 02/26/2014 11:01 AM

News

Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said on MLB Network on Wednesday that Stephen Drew could wait into the regular season to sign with a team.

ESPN New York

Impact

FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal floated the very same scenario over the weekend, as Drew would not be attached to draft pick compensation if he waits until after June's draft in order to sign with a team. Nelson Cruz recently settled for a one-year, $8 million contract with the Orioles, but it's unclear whether Drew will be willing to take a similar "pillow" contract. Alderson acknowledged Wednesday that the Mets are a logical fit for the veteran shortstop, but that they are still weighing the various factors involved.

Mets reportedly offered Drew $9.5 million | 02/22/2014 8:39 AM

News

According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, the Mets offered Stephen Drew a one-year, $9.5 million deal at some point this offseason, and were politely turned down.

CBS Sports

Impact

The free agent shortstop is said to be looking for a contract in the range of at least $14 million per season, but at this point he's unlikely to find it. If his asking price falls, the Mets could still be in play, as he would be a massive upgrade on both sides of the ball for them.

NYM don't think Drew is 'worth' current price | 02/19/2014 6:54 PM

News

A source tells Anthony DiComo of MLB.com that the Mets don't think Stephen Drew is "worth it" at his current asking price.

Mets.mlb.com

Impact

"At the numbers he's looking for, we don't think he's worth it compared with what we have," the source said. The team has continued to express belief in Ruben Tejada, and it appears they're comfortable going forward with Tejada at shortstop if Drew's contract demands don't come down. Drew's agent, Scott Boras, is believed to still be looking for at least a $14 million deal like the one he turned down from the Red Sox early in free agency.

Yanks' offer to Stephen Drew since rescinded | 02/18/2014 6:50 PM

News

Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports that the Yankees made a two- or three-year offer to Stephen Drew earlier this offseason but have since rescinded it.

New York Post

Impact

Sherman says the club made a bunch of free agent offers early in the offseason, but owner Hal Steinbrenner has "put a clamp" on spending following the Masahiro Tanaka signing. Drew would make sense for the Yanks as a third baseman and insurance policy for Derek Jeter, but it doesn't look like it's going to happen.

Report: Four teams in on Stephen Drew | 02/18/2014 3:20 PM

News

Jim Bowden of ESPN.com and MLB Network Radio on Sirius XM reports that four teams are currently "in" on free agent infielder Stephen Drew.

Jim Bowden on Twitter

Impact

The Mets and Red Sox are two of them, but the others are a mystery. However, the Yankees, Astros, Twins, and Blue Jays are among the teams who have been mentioned as possibilities. Bowden notes that an owner with one of the four teams is involved in the talks, so we could finally see some resolution soon.

Drew still wants at least $14M per season | 02/18/2014 2:01 PM

News

Mike Puma of the New York Post reports that it's "clear" that agent Scott Boras still wants Stephen Drew to get at least $14 million this season.

Mike Puma on Twitter

Impact

Drew turned down a one-year, $14.1 million qualifying offer from the Red Sox to test free agency, so Boras is still aiming to find a similar salary for his client on the open market. The Mets aren't going there and he'll likely be hard-pressed to find it elsewhere, especially with draft pick compensation attached.

Yanks won't give another major league deal | 02/16/2014 1:56 PM

News

Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports that the Yankees are not considering handing out any more major league contracts prior to Opening Day.

Joel Sherman on Twitter

Impact

Some have speculated that they could go after Stephen Drew, Ervin Santana or someone else, but it doesn't sound like that will happen. The Yanks have already committed big money to Masahiro Tanaka, Jacoby Ellsbury, Brian McCann, Carlos Beltran and Hiroki Kuroda this winter, and it appears they'll only do minor league deals from now on if they sign anyone else.

Red Sox hold firm on one-year offer to Drew | 02/16/2014 8:58 AM

News

John Tomase of the Boston Herald reports that the Red Sox have "held firm" with a one-year offer to Stephen Drew.

Boston Herald

Impact

Multiple sources have told Tomase that they're willing to offer one year, while one source says it would likely be one year with an option. Drew's agent, Scott Boras, is looking for at least a three-year deal for his client, but it's not coming from the Red Sox and is looking unlikely to come from anyone at this point. Manager John Farrell wants Drew's situation solved one way or another soon. "I think the one thing that we don't want is a lingering what-if if Stephen is still out there," Farrell said. "I think in all fairness to our guys, our clubhouse, guys that would be affected if he were to be brought in."

Mets GM says contract with Drew is 'unlikely' | 02/13/2014 11:18 AM

News

Mets GM Sandy Alderson said Thursday morning that a pact with Stephen Drew is "unlikely."

Newark Star-Ledger

Impact

"I don't keep a running tab on the payroll but we're somewhere in excess of $85 million," Alderson told reporters. "We said we'll probably be in that range when everything is said and done. We'd always like to have more players but that doesn't always make you a better team." Perhaps the outlook will change if Drew lowers his current asking price. He has struggled to attract legitimate offers this winter because signing him requires the forfeiture of a top draft pick.

Alderson: Mets haven't ruled out signing Drew | 02/11/2014 2:33 PM

News

Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said during an appearance on WFAN on Tuesday that the club hasn't ruled out signing Stephen Drew under "the right circumstances."

D.J. Short on Twitter

Impact

The Mets have been an obvious suitor for Drew throughout the offseason, but they have been content waiting out the market. Drew's agent, Scott Boras, has reportedly asked for a multi-year deal with an opt-out after the first season, which isn't going to work for New York. Unless some compromise is reached, the Mets are prepared to give Ruben Tejada another shot at the starting shortstop job.

The Red Sox are continuing their dialogue with Drew, but it sounds like they're content to wait things out. Boston wants Drew back on a one-year deal, but agent Scott Boras is holding out hope that someone will extend a multi-year offer to his client. The Mets are also known to have interest in the shortstop.

Report: Drew wants opt-out after first year | 02/06/2014 11:24 PM

News

Adam Rubin of ESPNNewYork.com reports that agent Scott Boras is looking for an opt-out clause after the first year of Stephen Drew's contract.

ESPNNewYork.com

Impact

Boras is going to have a tough time convincing a team to give up a draft pick to sign Drew and also agree to include an opt-out clause in his contract. Not surprisingly, Rubin says an opt-out clause would be a deal-breaker for the Mets, so it doesn't sound like he'll land in Queens unless Boras changes his demands. He does add that the Mets would consider a two- or possibly three-year deal for Drew (without an opt-out clause, of course).

Mets a 'long shot' to sign FA Stephen Drew | 02/04/2014 11:04 PM

News

Mike Puma and Ken Davidoff of the New York Post have been told by Mets executives it's a "long shot" that they'll sign Stephen Drew.

New York Post

Impact

Agent Scott Boras told the Post that it's "very clear the Mets have interest in Stephen Drew," which is no surprise given how much they've been connected to him this winter. However, Boras is looking for at least a three-year deal and it doesn't appear the Mets are willing to give it to him. Drew has struggled to attract a healthy market this winter because his free agency is tied to draft pick compensation.

Mets have no current offer out to SS Drew | 02/04/2014 2:52 PM

News

Kristie Ackert of the New York Daily News reports that the Mets have no offer on the table for Stephen Drew at this time.

Kristie Ackert on Twitter

Report: Mets make offer to Stephen Drew | 02/04/2014 2:32 PM

News

WFAN's Mike Francesa said Tuesday that the Mets have made an offer to free agent shortstop Stephen Drew and that the two sides are still at odds in regard to the number of years involved.

Robert Brender on Twitter

Alderson: Mets 'unlikely' to sign SS Drew | 01/29/2014 8:52 AM

News

Mets general manager Sandy Alderson told Anthony DiComo of MLB.com via phone on Tuesday that the club is "unlikely" to sign free agent shortstop Stephen Drew.

Mets.mlb.com

Impact

Drew's market has been slow to develop this winter and the Mets have been critical of Ruben Tejada in the past, so a match makes sense on paper, but Alderson doesn't see it happening. "We haven't ruled it out, but I think doing anything is unlikely," said Alderson. "I think that Stephen will always have other opportunities. We continue to monitor his situation. We're looking at other free agents that are still available and trying to judge their status, and how they might fit with us. I know there's been a lot of speculation about Drew and the Mets, but at this point, that's what it remains -- speculation." Assuming the Mets are out of the mix, a return to the Red Sox might give him his best chance to remain at shortstop. The Yankees, Blue Jays, and Athletics have been mentioned as possible landing spots, but he'd likely have to play other positions.

Buster: Yankees not considering Stephen Drew | 01/24/2014 8:44 AM

News

ESPN's Buster Olney hears that the Yankees "are still not weighing a run" at Stephen Drew.

Buster Olney on Twitter

Impact

CBS Sports' Jon Heyman reported Thursday that Drew is "one free agent the Yankees are at least weighing," but Olney is hearing otherwise. FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal has also heard that Drew signing with the Yanks isn't likely. The club has spent a boatload of money this offseason but is currently slated to go into the year with Brian Roberts at second base and Kelly Johnson at third. Drew would likely start at second and offer protection at shortstop if Derek Jeter isn't healthy.

Heyman says Drew is "one free agent the Yankees are at least weighing" after they've eclipsed the $189 million luxury tax threshold following the Masahiro Tanaka signing. He adds, though, that a possible run at Drew "depends on the price." Drew would likely handle second base and provide protection at shortstop for Derek Jeter. He could then take over at short in 2015 if Jeter retires after this season.

Drew could be willing to play other positions | 01/15/2014 2:44 PM

News

According to Peter Gammons, Stephen Drew's agent, Scott Boras, has dropped several hints this week that his client could be willing to play other positions besides shortstop.

Gammons Daily

Impact

Drew has struggled to find a home this winter, in part because he is attached to draft compensation, but also because there aren't many teams looking for shortstops at the moment. His willingness to play other positions could make him more attractive, as Gammons mentions the Yankees and Red Sox as possible fits. The Mets remain a possibility, but they appear content to wait out the market.

'Five or six' teams in on Stephen Drew | 01/12/2014 10:52 AM

News

Stephen Drew's agent, Scott Boras, told Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe that there are "five or six" teams he's actively talking to about his client.

Boston Globe

Impact

"There are five or six teams who I have actively talked to concerning Stephen," Boras said. "Ben [Cherington, the Red Sox GM] and I have continued our dialogue and will continue to talk." The Red Sox would like Drew back on a one-year deal, but Boras is pushing for a second year. The Mets have also been connected to the shortstop. "I tell my clients all the time that free agency is a long process," said Boras. "It just doesn't end at Christmas. It's a January, February, and even a March process."

Red Sox, Stephen Drew still talking | 01/09/2014 6:21 PM

News

Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington said Thursday that the club has "kept the dialogue going" with Stephen Drew.

Alex Speier on Twitter

Impact

Cherington did note, though, that the two sides haven't had any conversations since the holidays. The Red Sox wouldn't mind having Drew back on a short-term deal, but the shortstop's agent, Scott Boras, will be looking for a bigger deal elsewhere first. Having draft pick compensation attached to him has certainly affected Drew's market.

Stephen Drew has no health issues | 01/06/2014 5:04 PM

News

Rob Bradford of WEEI.com was told by a source that Stephen Drew is perfectly healthy.

Rob Bradford on Twitter

Impact

This refutes a recent report from Andy Martino of the New York Daily News, who was told by an official with one team who expressed early interest in Drew that his medicals were raising some concerns. However, it appears that draft pick compensation and the lack of teams looking for a shortstop might be bigger issues with his market right now.

Drew to Mets 'possibility,' not 'probability' | 01/05/2014 12:21 PM

News

Adam Rubin of ESPNNewYork.com reports that the Mets "remain engaged" with Stephen Drew's agent, Scott Boras, but signing the shortstop is "more of a possibility than a probability."

ESPNNewYork.com

Impact

Rubin adds that club officials "are divided about how valuable Drew would be to the Mets" and the team "would be more willing to consider a one- or two-year deal." However, if Drew winds up with a shorter term contract, the feeling is that he's likelier to re-sign with the Red Sox than sign with the Mets. Drew is more attractive to the Mets than most other clubs because their first-round pick is protected.

Yankees will not sign Stephen Drew | 12/31/2013 1:15 PM

News

According to Peter Gammons, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said yesterday that the team is not signing Stephen Drew.

Peter Gammons on Tiwtter

Impact

The Yankees were a longshot to begin with, even with uncertainty in their middle infield. Drew's market is quite limited, partially because he's attached to draft pick compensation, so a return to the Red Sox might be his best option. The Mets have been mentioned as a possible alternative, but they have publicly put their support behind Ruben Tejada in recent weeks.

However, it sounds like they'll only be serious players for him if his price drops. Having draft pick compensation attached to his signing has affected the market for Drew, which could result in him winding up back in Boston. Drew batted .253/.333/.443 with 13 home runs and 67 RBI in 124 games last year for the Red Sox.

Both Drew and Morales could be fits on the field for the Mets, and it helps that the club's first-round draft pick is protected. However, it could be a case where they're only serious contenders for them if they wait it out and their price drops. The Red Sox are interested in re-signing Drew, while the Orioles have been connected to Morales.

It's not clear exactly what clarity Drew is waiting for -- the Yankees seem set with Derek Jeter and Brendan Ryan at shortstop. There hasn't been a reported offer from the Yankees to the 30-year-old, as the shortstop's market has been pretty quiet thus far this offseason. The Mets and Red Sox have also been connected to Drew to some degree, but nothing has seemed imminent up to this point. Perhaps that's close to changing.

Mets say trade for SS more likely than Drew | 12/12/2013 10:02 AM

News

Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said Thursday that the club is more likely to upgrade shortstop via trade than sign free agent Stephen Drew.

Adam Rubin on Twitter

Impact

We wouldn't expect Alderson to say anything different even if he had legitimate interest in signing Drew. The Red Sox and Twins also reportedly have interest in the 30-year-old, but it looks like his market will have to play out for a while.

Drew's market has been slow to develop this winter, likely because he is attached to draft pick compensation, so it's possible that he could return to Boston at a reasonable rate. The Mets and Twins have also been mentioned as possible landing spots.

Mets, Twins, BoSox in on Stephen Drew | 12/10/2013 2:01 PM

News

Matthew Cerrone of MetsBlog reports that the Mets, Twins and Red Sox are the most likely teams to sign free agent shortstop Stephen Drew.

Matthew Cerrone on Twitter

Impact

Drew is at the top of a weak free agent shortstop class. When he is off the board, teams in need of a shortstop will be scrambling for other options. As part of the championship-winning Red Sox last season, Drew posted a .777 OPS. He will turn 31 in March, important to keep in mind depending on the length of the contract he will eventually sign.

Report: Drew could return to Red Sox | 12/10/2013 12:52 PM

News

According to Rob Bradford of WEEI.com, one executive with a team thought to be linked to Stephen Drew believes that the free agent shortstop will return to the Red Sox.

Rob Bradford on Twitter

Impact

Drew has reportedly drawn some interest from the Mets, but his market has been pretty quiet this winter, in part due to him being attached to draft pick compensation. The Red Sox have Xander Bogaerts at the ready if he departs, but it's not hard to envision a scenario where Drew could return at a reasonable rate.

Red Sox waiting to make offer for SS Drew | 12/09/2013 9:46 AM

News

According to WEEI's Rob Bradfrod, the Red Sox are waiting to make a "definitive offer" to Stephen Drew.

WEEI

Impact

Drew is tied to draft pick compensation and has struggled to attract a healthy market this winter because of it, so the Red Sox will practice patience and hope to get the 30-year-old shortstop on a super team-friendly deal. Drew batted .253/.333/.443 with 13 home runs and 67 RBI in 124 games this past season for Boston.

'Nothing too recent' between Drew and Red Sox | 12/07/2013 9:22 PM

News

There haven't been recent discussions between the Red Sox and Stephen Drew, according to Ian Browne of MLB.com.

RedSox.mlb.com

Impact

"Yeah we've had off-and-on dialogue, nothing too recent, but certainly we're leaving the door open still," Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington said. The Sox have been busy with the recent signings of A.J. Pierzynski and Mike Napoli, but they go into the Winter Meetings with few holes to fill. It sounds like Cherington is OK with the idea of going forward with Xander Bogaerts as the team's starting shortstop, meaning any deal with Drew would likely be one that makes sense for the team. Drew has yet to draw notable interest from any other teams thus far this offseason.

Stephen Drew remains in play for Red Sox | 12/06/2013 11:01 PM

News

Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe believes that re-signing Stephen Drew remains an possibility for the Red Sox.

Pete Abraham on Twitter

Impact

Abraham cautions detractors not to underestimate how much the Red Sox like the veteran shortstop. His market has been incredibly quiet this winter, and the World Champions would love to bring him back at a discount to provide defensive stability at shortstop while having an insurance policy in case Will Middlebrooks falters at third base.

Retaining Drew still an option for Red Sox | 11/30/2013 8:34 AM

News

John Tomase of the Boston Herald believes that re-signing Stephen Drew is still a plausible option for the Red Sox.

Boston Herald

Impact

With Drew's list of potential suitors starting to dwindle in recent weeks, a reunion with the Red Sox could make sense. It would provide the World Champions insurance in the event that Xander Bogaerts isn't ready to take over full-time, or if Will Middlebrooks continues to struggle. As Tomase notes, the Red Sox also have leverage in negotiations, as they are the one team that wouldn't have to forfeit a draft pick to sign him.

Boston hasn't closed door on Stephen Drew | 11/14/2013 11:30 AM

News

A team source told WEEI's Rob Bradford that the Red Sox "haven't closed the door" on re-signing Stephen Drew.

WEEI

Impact

Gordon Edes of ESPN Boston wrote Thursday morning that the Red Sox had already ruled Drew out, but no decision like that has been made. The 30-year-old free agent is asking for a big contract and the Sox can go with Xander Bogaerts at shortstop if the price gets too high, but both sides will let the market play out first.

Report: Stephen Drew won't return to Boston | 11/14/2013 9:23 AM

News

Gordon Edes of ESPN Boston heard from a source that Stephen Drew will not return to the Red Sox.

ESPN Boston

Impact

Red Sox management had interest in bringing Drew back, but the free agent shortstop is seeking a contract that soars well beyond Boston's offseason budget. Drew turned down a one-year, $14.1 million qualifying offer last week, so he'll net a draft pick for the Sox when he signs elsewhere this winter. Xander Bogaerts will likely start at shortstop and Will Middlebrooks will presumably man third base in 2014.

Stephen Drew rejects $14.1M qualifying offer | 11/11/2013 3:09 PM

News

Stephen Drew will not accept Boston's qualifying offer.

Gordon Edes on Twitter

Impact

It would have been a one-year, $14.1 million contract and the Scott Boras client has his sights set much higher. The team that signs Drew this winter will have to forfeit a top draft pick. Unless that team is the Red Sox.

Mets to meet with Boras to discuss Drew, Choo | 11/10/2013 8:23 PM

News

David Lennon of Newsday reports that the Mets will meet with Scott Boras this week to discuss free agents Stephen Drew and Shin-Soo Choo.

David Lennon on Twitter

Impact

Lennon notes that if the Mets acquire Drew to play shortstop, they could potentially move Ruben Tejada to second base and shift Daniel Murphy to a corner outfield spot. The Mets have money to spend, and several holes to fill this offseason, so talking with Boras early on seems to be a great place to start.

There had been some thought that Drew might accept the Red Sox' one-year, $14.1 million qualifying offer, but that's now looking unlikely. Drew had a great year defensively and hit .253 with a .777 OPS for the Red Sox in 2013. The shortstop's agent, Scott Boras, recently told CBS Sports that "Drew is in the top five offensively and defensively at his position." That might be a stretch, but he obviously has no shortage of suitors.

Boras has meetings set up for Stephen Drew | 11/07/2013 7:21 PM

News

MLB.com's Peter Gammons was told by a general manager that Stephen Drew's agent, Scott Boras, has set up "a number" of meetings for his client at next week's GM meetings.

Peter Gammons on Twitter

Impact

The GM also told Gammons that the Red Sox can "forget" about Drew accepting their $14.1 million qualifying offer. The shortstop wound up having to take a one-year, $9.5 million deal last winter, but he had a bounce-back season and will have no trouble netting a multi-year pact from someone this offseason.

Drew received a one-year, $14.1 million qualifying offer from the Red Sox on Monday, but he's expected to turn it down to seek a multi-year deal. Of course, that contract could come from Boston itself. "I can't sit here today and say that he's going to be back here. Personally, I'm hopeful he's back. It buys us some time, whether [Xander Bogaerts] is the guy going forward next year at shortstop or if he's at third base," said Farrell. It's a telling quote, as it seems to imply that Will Middlebrooks is out of luck if Drew returns. That scenario could render Middlebrooks an appealing trade chip.

Sox make qualifying offer to Stephen Drew | 11/04/2013 3:10 PM

News

Stephen Drew got a qualifying offer from the Red Sox.

Sean McAdam on Twitter

Impact

It's a one-year, $14.1 million offer. Drew will decline it and then be tied to draft pick compensation in free agency. As one of the few available shortstops on the open market, he should land a sizable contract.

With Jeter slated to be the Yankees everyday shortstop, it remains to be seen if Drew would be interested in more of a utility role. Boland also notes that they're also interested in bringing back Brendan Ryan, who was acquired from the Mariners in a mid-season deal in 2013.

Stephen Drew will remain in Red Sox lineup | 10/18/2013 7:24 PM

News

Red Sox manager John Farrell clarified Friday that despite his struggles offensively, Stephen Drew will remain in the Red Sox lineup for Game 6 of the ALCS on Friday.

Pete Abraham on Sulia

Impact

The 30-year-old shortstop is just 1-for-17 with eight strikeouts in the series, and continues to be lauded for his tremendous defense at shortstop. Farrell prefers to shore up the middle of the field defensively, rather than looking to generate extra offense by starting Will Middlebrooks at the hot corner and shifting Xander Bogaerts to shortstop.

Stephen Drew homers, triples in win | 09/19/2013 9:44 PM

News

Stephen Drew had a two-run homer and a triple against the Orioles on Thursday.

Rotoworld.com

Impact

Drew has always been a surprising source of triples, but part of that appeared to be a triple-friendly ballpark in Chase Field. Except he's kept it going this year, with seven triples to bring his career total to 59. He's 13th on the active list, and the only younger player ahead of him is Jose Reyes.

Stephen Drew not in Red Sox lineup Saturday | 09/14/2013 9:51 AM

News

Stephen Drew is not in the Red Sox starting lineup for Saturday's game against the Yankees.

Rob Bradford on Twitter

Impact

It's nothing more than a day of rest for the veteran shortstop, with youngster Xander Bogaerts starting at shortstop against tough southpaw C.C. Sabathia.

Stephen Drew not in Red Sox lineup Saturday | 09/07/2013 10:01 AM

News

Stephen Drew is not in the Red Sox starting lineup for Saturday's matchup against the Yankees.

Ken Rosenthal on Twitter

Impact

It's merely a scheduled day of rest for the veteran shortstop. Xander Bogaerts is getting the call at shortstop against opposing left-hander David Huff.

Stephen Drew not in lineup Saturday | 08/31/2013 3:01 PM

News

Stephen Drew is not in Saturday's lineup.

Brian MacPherson on Twitter

Impact

It's just a scheduled day off. Xander Bogaerts is starting at shortstop against left-hander John Danks.